Guide

Abandoned boat, wreck or hazardous vessel: report it

Rule out pollution and emergency, document the vessel safely and use the proper federal reporting channel.

Pollution or immediate hazard

Do not board an unstable wreck. For fuel, fire, dangerous drift or a person in distress, call emergency services or the Coast Guard.

Observe from a safe place

Record location, name, number, colour, size, condition, tide and proximity to a navigation channel. Do not board to search for an owner.

Classify the situation

Distinguish a normally moored craft, lost property, wreck, abandoned vessel and pollution risk. A marina or municipality may know the situation.

Use the federal form

Transport Canada explains how to report an abandoned boat or wreck. Include location, non-intrusive photos and why the vessel appears concerning.

Do not claim the boat

A report transfers neither ownership nor salvage rights. Keep the file number and separately notify your insurer if your property was damaged.

Report an abandoned boat or wreck — Transport Canada

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Official sources are linked in the guide. Checked August 29, 2026; confirm current rules, forms and deadlines with the responsible authority.
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